Best Cataract Surgeons in India

In India, cataracts are a very common disease and the primary cause of blindness. Cataracts usually develop in elderly people and lead to blurry vision, light sensitivity, night vision problems, and other symptoms that can significantly affect the individual’s life. The only treatment method for all types of cataracts is surgery. Cataract surgery is a safe and effective option to restore and preserve vision. 

What is Cataract? 

A cataract is the clouding of the eye lens, which makes it difficult for light to pass through and reach the retina. The eye lens is a clear, flexible structure that is made up of proteins. With age or due to some other reasons, the proteins in the lens may break down and form cloudy patches that interfere with vision. 

Clouded vision can make it difficult to read, drive, or even perform other basic tasks. In general, people suffering from cataracts have a vision as though they are looking through a frosty or fogged-up window. The condition generally develops slowly and doesn’t impact vision in the early stage. However, with progression, it can eventually impair vision to a great extent. Therefore, it’s crucial to seek proper treatment for cataracts to prevent vision loss.  

Types of Cataracts 

Typically, a cataract can develop at any age, but it’s more common in older people. Here are some common types of cataracts- 

• Nuclear Cataracts- It is a type of cataract that starts developing at the center of the lens. It progresses slowly and causes yellowing or browning of the lens. If you have a nuclear cataract in one or both eyes, you will at first have nearsightedness, i.e., your nearby vision will improve temporarily. 
• Cortical Cataracts- A cortical cataract starts as a whitish streak that appears on the outer edge of the cortex lens. It also progresses slowly and extends to the center over time, interfering with the light that passes through the center of the lens. 
• Posterior Subcapsular Cataracts- This type of cataract appears at the back of the lens as a small opaque area in the direct path of the light. It affects the reading vision, reduces vision in bright light, and causes glares. It progresses more quickly than other types of cataracts. 
• Congenital Cataracts- It is a type of cataract that people are born with or develop during childhood due to trauma, genetics, or intrauterine infection. They usually don’t affect vision. However, if your vision gets affected, you must get them removed as soon as possible. 

There are other less common types of cataracts as well that include:

• Secondary cataracts are caused by medications or some other diseases, such as glaucoma or diabetes. 
• Traumatic cataracts that develop after an injury may take years to develop. 
• Radiation cataracts form when a person undergoes radiation treatment for cancer. 

Symptoms of Cataracts 

In the initial stages, cataracts usually don’t present with symptoms. But as the condition progresses, the following symptoms may arise- 

• Blurred or cloudy vision
• Sensitivity to glare and bright lights
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Fading or yellowing of colors
• Double vision in one eye
• Needing brighter light for reading and other activities
• Halos around lights
• Frequent changes in eyeglass prescription

These symptoms can worsen over time, and in advanced cases, they can lead to significant vision loss or even blindness. If you are experiencing any of these above-mentioned symptoms, you are likely to need cataract surgery to address these problems. To undergo cataract eye surgery in India, consult the best eye doctor near you. 

Causes of Cataracts 

Various factors contribute to the development of cataracts. Some of the leading causes are explained below- 

• Age: As we age, the proteins in the lens of the eye can break down and clump together, causing the lens to become cloudy.
• Genetics: Some people may be more prone to developing cataracts due to their genes. Inherited conditions, such as Down syndrome, can also increase the risk of cataracts.
• Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity, also increase the risk of developing cataracts. 
• Eye injuries: Trauma to the eye, such as from a blow to the eye or exposure to radiation, can damage the lens and lead to cataracts.
• Prolonged exposure to UV radiation: Long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or other sources, such as tanning beds, can also increase the risk of cataracts.
• Medications: Long-term use of certain medications, such as corticosteroids, also contributes to the development of cataracts. 
• Lifestyle factors: Lifestyle factors, such as smoking and heavy alcohol consumption, significantly impairs eye health and increase the risk of developing cataracts. 

It is important to note that while some risk factors for cataracts, such as age and genetics, cannot be controlled, other risk factors, such as UV exposure and lifestyle factors, can be modified to reduce the risk of developing cataracts. Protecting your eyes from UV radiation by wearing sunglasses and a hat, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, can help reduce the risk of cataracts.

Who to Consult for Cataracts? 

An ophthalmologist or optometrist are healthcare professionals who should be consulted for the diagnosis and treatment of cataracts.

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases and can perform surgery if necessary. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation of your eye health, including a detailed examination of your lens to determine if you have cataracts. They can also provide treatment options, including surgery if necessary, and manage any other eye conditions that may be present.

An optometrist is a healthcare professional who specializes in vision care and can diagnose and manage cataracts, as well as other eye conditions. They can perform a comprehensive eye examination to determine the extent of your cataracts and provide treatment options, such as corrective lenses, if appropriate. In some cases, they may refer you to an ophthalmologist for surgery if necessary.

It is important to have regular eye examinations, especially as you age or if you have a family history of eye diseases, to help detect and manage any eye conditions, including cataracts, as early as possible. You can get in touch with the best cataract surgeon in India by giving us a call. 

Tests Recommended to Diagnose Cataracts

To diagnose the severity of the cataract and identify the safest approach to treatment, the doctor will recommend a comprehensive eye examination that will include the following- 

• Visual acuity test- This test is done to measure how well you can see at various distances using an eye chart.
• Dilated eye exam: In this exam, your eye doctor will put drops in your eyes to dilate the pupils, allowing them to examine the lens and other structures in your eye.
• Slit-lamp exam: This exam uses a special microscope called a slit-lamp to examine the lens and find out how much light is passing through the lens. 
• Tonometry: This test measures the pressure inside your eye and can help detect glaucoma, which can sometimes occur alongside cataracts.
• Other tests: Your eye doctor may also perform other tests, such as a glare test or contrast sensitivity test, to assess how well you can see in different lighting conditions.

If cataracts are detected during the examination, your eye doctor may also perform additional tests, such as a biometry test to measure the size and shape of your eye, to help determine the best type of intraocular lens (IOL) for cataract surgery.

Treatment for Cataracts

The treatment for cataracts typically involves surgery to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with an artificial lens, also known as an intraocular lens (IOL). Most people worry about the safety and effectiveness of the procedure. But it should be noted that cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed eye surgeries in India, with a high success rate in restoring vision and improving the quality of life. 

The surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis, and most people can go home the same day. However, in some cases, the condition may not be severe enough to require surgery. In such cases, the cataract doctor will recommend watchful waiting, which involves looking out for the signs of cataract progression. Once the cataract has matured enough to be safely removed without damaging other eye components, the doctor will recommend surgery. 

If you need to get a cataract operation in India, you can get in touch with us. 

How Cataract Surgery is Performed? 

Cataract surgery is a safe procedure and typically takes less than an hour to perform. Here's a step-by-step overview of how cataract surgery is typically performed:

• First, anesthestic eye drops are placed into the eye to numb them, and dilation eye drops are used to dilate the pupils.
• Next, the surgeon makes a small incision on the side of the cornea to get better access to the internal eye structures. 
• Then, the surgeon makes a small opening in the capsule that surrounds the natural eye lens to reach the cloudy part of the lens. 
• The surgeon will then use phacoemulsification or laser to break up the clouded part of the lens into smaller pieces and suction them out of the eye with precision. A small piece of the lens capsule is usually left intact so that it can hold the intraocular lens. 
• After the cloudy lens is removed, the surgeon will insert the artificial cataract lens or intraocular lens into the eye to replace the natural lens and provide clear vision. The IOLs used for the procedure are generally foldable and inserted through the same incision made to remove the cloudy lens. 
• Finally, the surgeon will close the incisions using fine sutures that will dissolve on their own after some time. 

After the surgery, you will be monitored in a recovery area for a short time before you are allowed to go home. You may need to wear a protective shield over your eye for a few days to prevent accidental injury or rubbing of the eye. Your eye doctor will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for your eye after surgery, as well as any medications or eye drops you may need to take. 

Different Techniques of Cataract Surgery 

There are several different techniques of cataract surgery that can be used, depending on the specific needs of the patient and the preference of the surgeon. Here are some of the most common techniques:

• Phacoemulsification: This is the most common technique used in cataract surgery. It involves making a small incision in the cornea and using a tiny ultrasonic probe to break up the cloudy lens into small pieces, which are then suctioned out of the eye.
• Femtosecond Laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS): This technique uses a femtosecond laser to make precise incisions in the cornea and to break up the cloudy lens. This can help improve the accuracy and predictability of the surgery.
• Microincision cataract surgery (MICS): This technique involves making a very small incision to access the cloudy lens. Then ultrasonic probe or laser is used to remove the cloudy lens. 

Besides the above-mentioned techniques, there are other techniques available, too, such as extracapsular surgery, intracapsular surgery, etc., that may be used as required. Each technique has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the best approach for each patient will depend on several factors, including the severity of the cataract, the patient's overall health, and the surgeon's experience and preference. 

Currently, laser cataract surgery in India is the most popular technique as it is safer and more effective compared to other techniques. 

Results of Cataract Surgery 

Here are some of the expected results of cataract surgery:

• Improved vision: The primary goal of cataract surgery is to improve vision that has been impaired by a cloudy lens. Most people experience significant improvement in vision within a few days of the surgery.
• Reduced dependence on glasses: Depending on the type of intraocular lens (IOL) used in the surgery, many people are able to reduce their dependence on glasses or contact lenses after cataract surgery. For example, some IOLs are designed to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism altogether. 
• Improved quality of life: Many people experience an overall improvement in their quality of life after cataract surgery, as they are able to see more clearly and participate in activities that they may have had to give up due to poor vision.

While most people have a positive outcome from cataract surgery, there are some risks and potential complications too. Therefore, it’s crucial that you consult the best cataract surgeon in India to ensure they explain the risks and benefits of cataract surgery to help you make an informed decision. 

Potential Side Effects, Risks, and Complications of Cataract Surgery 

Although cataract surgery is considered a safe and effective procedure, there are some risks, complications, and side effects that can occur during or after the surgery. Here are some of the potential risks:

• An infection may occur in the eye, followed by redness, pain, or further vision. Antibiotic eye drops are usually prescribed to prevent an infection. 
• Some people may experience swelling in or around the eye, which may cause discomfort or blurry vision. 
• Bleeding is another common side effect of eye surgery, as the ocular blood vessels are damaged during the procedure. This is temporary and resolves on its own after some time. 
• IOL dislocation is another potential and serious complication that can arise after cataract surgery. The implanted IOL may become dislodged and cause visual disturbances. Additional surgery will be required to address this complication. 
• Retinal detachment is a rare but severe complication that requires immediate attention. Otherwise, permanent vision loss can occur. 
• In rare instances, cataract surgery can also increase intraocular pressure, which can lead to glaucoma if not addressed on time. 
• Posterior capsule opacification (PCO) or secondary cataracts may develop after surgery which will again require surgery to remove the cloudy lens. 

Besides these, you may experience other side effects, such as glares, halos, dry eyes, etc. But these side effects are temporary and often go away on their own or can be managed by medications. 

Recovery Timeline & Tips to Follow After Cataract Treatment 

After cataract treatment, it is important to follow the post-operative instructions given by your eye doctor to ensure a smooth and successful recovery. Here is a general recovery timeline after cataract surgery- 

• Immediately after surgery, you will be taken to a recovery area, where you will be monitored for a short time. The treated eye may be covered with a protective shield or patch to prevent infection or injury.
• In the first few days after surgery, you will need to use prescription eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. You may experience mild discomfort, itching, or redness, but this should improve within a few days.
• In the first week after surgery, you will need to avoid any strenuous activity or heavy lifting. You should also avoid rubbing your eyes or getting water or soap in your eyes.
• After the first week, you need to continue to use the prescribed eye drops and attend any follow-up appointments with your eye doctor. You may gradually resume normal activities as instructed by your doctor, but be cautious and avoid any activities that could put stress on your eyes.

It can take several weeks or even months for your vision to stabilize after cataract surgery fully. You should continue to attend regular eye exams and report any changes in vision or discomfort to your eye doctor.

Common Recovery Tips to Follow During the Recovery Period 

Here are some tips to help with recovery:

• It is important to rest and relax as much as possible in the first few days after surgery. 
• Avoid any activities that could strain your eyes, such as reading or watching TV for long periods of time.
• Wear a protective shield or sunglasses when outside to protect your eyes from dust, wind, and bright light.
• Use the prescribed eye drops as directed to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
• Avoid rubbing your eyes as it can increase the risk of infection or dislodging the IOL.
• Do not cook or drive until the doctor gives you permission to do so. 
• Attend all follow-up appointments with your eye doctor to ensure proper healing and monitor for complications.

Following the post-op guidelines is essential to ensure that your eyes heal properly.